Many patients come hoping to solve the problem of excess weight through bariatric surgery. I always explain that this method is indeed effective, but it is not a definitive solution for everyone. Therefore, before deciding on surgery, we conduct a comprehensive health assessment to ensure maximum safety and real benefit from the procedure.
Over the years, I have seen that there are both temporary and permanent contraindications. Some issues can be resolved before surgery, while others are serious reasons to refuse surgery.
When we postpone or do not perform surgery
| Situation | Why it is important to consider | Our approach |
|---|---|---|
| Pregnancy | The health of the mother and child must be protected. | We wait until pregnancy and breastfeeding are completed. |
| Uncontrolled heart or lung diseases | Risk of complications during anesthesia. | We provide treatment and stabilize the condition, consulting with a cardiologist or pulmonologist. |
| Severe liver diseases | The liver is important for metabolism and blood clotting. | For compensated conditions — we consider surgery; for decompensated — we refuse. |
| Blood clotting disorders | Severe bleeding may occur. | We correct the parameters to a safe level. |
| Acute infections | Any inflammation increases the risk of complications. | We first treat the infection, then plan surgery. |
| Recent heart attack or stroke | The body needs time to recover. | We wait for stabilization and conduct re-examinations. |
| Severe nutrient deficiencies | Absorption will be even lower after surgery. | We provide a course of vitamins and nutritional support. |
| Allergy to materials or medications | May complicate the course of surgery. | We select safe alternatives. |
| Inability to perform general anesthesia | Surgery cannot be performed without anesthesia. | If the risk is too high — we do not operate. |
| Severe mental disorders | May complicate postoperative recovery and adherence to treatment regimen. | Surgery is postponed until stabilization or not performed in uncontrolled cases. |
How we work with contraindications
When a patient comes to me, we start with a full medical examination. This is not just a formality — the safety of the surgery depends on the results. If I see problems that can be fixed, we prescribe treatment together with colleagues. For example:
- vitamin deficiency — a correction course;
- heart diseases — consultation and therapy with a cardiologist;
- liver diseases — joint management with a hepatologist.
Only when the condition is stable am I ready to say: "Yes, we can proceed with the surgery."
Why this is important
My goal as a surgeon is not just to perform the procedure, but to ensure you have a healthy and safe life afterward. Bariatric surgery is just a tool, and it works best when the body is prepared.
Therefore, I always tell patients: contraindications should not be seen as a verdict. In most cases, they are temporary, and together we can overcome them. When the right time comes, the surgery will bring the result you expect.
Author
A bariatric surgeon with many years of experience helping patients improve their health and quality of life.
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